MEDIA ADVISORY: Reps. Bilirakis and Deutch Launch Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance

Washington, DC (January 7, 2013) - Congressmen Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Ted Deutch (D-FL) will launch the bipartisan Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance (CHIA) on Wednesday, February 13, in the Foyer of the Rayburn House Office Building. This reception will bring together Members of Congress, the Greek, Cypriot and Israeli ambassadors, interested organizations, and the public. Brief remarks will be provided by the Co-Chairs and Ambassadors.

"Greece, Cyprus and Israel's strategic location, natural resources and intellectual capital create a natural partnership to address economic, energy and counter-terrorism issues in the Middle East and Europe," said Congressman Bilirakis. "Through the Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance, we hope to highlight how the relationships between these countries and the United States are critical to maintaining economic stability and national security."

"The Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance will highlight the strong relationship and growing cooperation between Israel, Greece and Cyprus," said Congressman Deutch. "I am pleased to co-chair this caucus with my colleague Congressman Bilirakis, and I look forward to our colleagues joining us in celebrating Hellenic-Israeli relations."

Details for the event include the following:

WHO: Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Congressman Ted Deutch (D-FL)

WHAT: Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance

WHEN: Wednesday, February 13

5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Rayburn Foyer

1st Floor, Rayburn House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515